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3mo ago

Dodgers Advance Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Rehab with Live Hitter Sessions Nearing

Ohtani incorporates breaking pitches into bullpen work as the Dodgers prioritize caution over urgency in his return to the mound.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 17: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts before the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium on May 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is scheduled to face hitters in a live batting practice session on Saturday. It will be Ohtani’s first time pitching to hitters since his second elbow surgery in September 2023 and a significant advancement in his throwing program. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
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Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Shohei Ohtani has progressed to throwing sliders and curveballs in bullpen sessions, marking a significant step in his pitching rehabilitation.
  • The Dodgers plan to have Ohtani face live hitters in simulated games soon, with no minor-league rehab starts in his buildup process.
  • Despite mounting injuries in the rotation, the team remains committed to a cautious approach, with Ohtani's pitching return expected only after the All-Star break.
  • Manager Dave Roberts and pitching coach Mark Prior emphasize balancing Ohtani’s two-way workload to protect his hitting while gradually ramping up his pitching intensity.
  • The injury-depleted Dodgers rotation, currently relying heavily on Yoshinobu Yamamoto, underscores the importance of Ohtani’s eventual return to the mound.